Best 15 Breweries in Asheville NC: A Guide to Craft Beer in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Asheville, North Carolina has become a must-visit destination for beer lovers from around the world. With its stunning natural beauty and thriving craft beer scene, it’s no surprise that Asheville has been dubbed “Beer City, USA” by popular polls. Visitors can explore over 30 breweries in the area, each with its own unique style and flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just looking for a fun and flavorful experience, Asheville’s craft beer scene has something to offer. From big-name breweries to hidden gems, there’s no shortage of options to explore. With so many choices, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best breweries in Asheville, NC, to help you plan your perfect beer-centric adventure.
The Asheville Craft Beer Scene
Asheville, North Carolina, is widely known as a craft beer mecca. With over 50 breweries in the area, Asheville has become a hub for beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. The city’s beer culture is deeply ingrained in its history and identity, making it a must-visit destination for any beer lover.
Asheville’s craft beer scene is deeply rooted in the city’s culture. The city has been named “Beer City, USA” multiple times, and for good reason. The breweries in Asheville are known for their commitment to quality, creativity, and innovation. Many of the breweries in Asheville use local ingredients in their beers, which adds a unique and authentic flavor to their offerings.
Asheville’s breweries are also known for their experimental and small-batch beers. Many of the breweries in the area are constantly pushing the boundaries of what beer can be, creating unique and exciting flavors that you won’t find anywhere else. This commitment to experimentation has helped put Asheville on the map as a craft beer destination.
In addition to their experimental beers, many of the breweries in Asheville also offer seasonal and flagship beers. These beers are often highly anticipated by locals and visitors alike and are a great way to get a taste of what each brewery has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a crisp, refreshing summer beer or a hearty, warming winter ale, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes in Asheville.
Top Breweries in Asheville
Asheville, North Carolina is known for its thriving craft beer scene, with over 40 breweries in the city alone. Here are some of the top breweries to visit in Asheville:
Burial Beer Co
Burial Beer Co. offers a wide range of beers, from classic styles to experimental brews. Their taproom is located in South Slope and features a spacious outdoor area with plenty of seating. Visitors can enjoy a variety of beers on tap, as well as a rotating selection of food trucks.
Website: http://www.burialbeer.com/
Address: 40 Collier Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
Wicked Weed Brewing
Wicked Weed Brewing is a popular brewery in Asheville, known for its sour and funky beers. Their taproom features a large outdoor area with games, as well as a full kitchen serving up elevated pub fare.
Website: https://www.wickedweedbrewing.com/
Address: 91 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
Highland Brewing Company
Highland Brewing Company is one of the oldest breweries in Asheville and offers a variety of classic styles as well as seasonal and limited-release brews. Their taproom features a large outdoor area with mountain views, as well as a full kitchen serving up pub grub.
Website: https://highlandbrewing.com/
Address: 12 Old Charlotte Hwy #200, Asheville, NC 28803, United States
New Belgium Brewing
New Belgium Brewing is a well-known brewery based in Colorado, with a second location in Asheville. Their taproom features a large outdoor area with plenty of seating, as well as a full kitchen serving up pub fare.
Website: https://www.newbelgium.com/
Address: 21 Craven St, Asheville, NC 28806, United States
Asheville Brewing Company
Asheville Brewing Company is a local favorite, known for its creative pizza toppings and beer selection. Their taproom features a cozy atmosphere with plenty of seating, as well as a large outdoor area with games.
Website: http://www.ashevillebrewing.com/
Address: 77 Coxe Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
Green Man Brewery
Green Man Brewery is another Asheville classic, known for its English-style ales and creative seasonal brews. Their taproom features a cozy atmosphere with plenty of seating, as well as a small outdoor area.
Website: http://www.greenmanbrewery.com/
Address: 27 Buxton Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
Wedge Brewing Company
Wedge Brewing Company is located in the River Arts District and offers a variety of classic and experimental brews. Their taproom features a large outdoor area with plenty of seating, as well as a rotating selection of food trucks.
Website: http://www.wedgebrewing.com/
Address: 37 Paynes Way, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
Hi-Wire Brewing
Hi-Wire Brewing offers a variety of classic styles as well as experimental brews and has two locations in Asheville. Their taprooms feature a spacious outdoor area with plenty of seating, as well as a full kitchen serving up pub fare.
Website: https://hiwirebrewing.com/
Address: 197 Hilliard Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
Dssolvr
Dssolvr is a newer brewery in Asheville, known for its creative and experimental brews. Their taproom features a unique, colorful atmosphere with plenty of seating, as well as a full kitchen serving up elevated pub fare.
Website: http://dssolvr.com/
Address: 63 N Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
Zillicoah Beer Co
Zillicoah Beer Co. is located just outside of Asheville and offers a variety of classic and experimental brews. Their taproom features a spacious outdoor area with riverfront views, as well as a rotating selection of food trucks.
Website: http://zillicoahbeer.com/
Address: 870 Riverside Dr, Woodfin, NC 28804, United States
Catawba Brewing Co
Catawba Brewing Co. offers a variety of classic styles as well as experimental brews and has several locations throughout North Carolina. Their Asheville location features a spacious taproom with plenty of seating, as well as a full kitchen serving up pub fare.
Website: http://www.catawbabrewing.com/
Address: 63 Brook St, Asheville, NC 28803, United States
Twin Leaf Brewery
Twin Leaf Brewery offers a variety of classic styles as well as experimental brews and has a cozy taproom in the South Slope area. Visitors can enjoy a variety of beers on tap, as well as a rotating selection of food trucks.
Website: http://www.twinleafbrewery.com/
Address: 144 Coxe Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
Archetype Brewing
Archetype Brewing is known for its creative and experimental brews and has a cozy taproom in West Asheville. Their taproom features a unique, artistic atmosphere with plenty of seating.
Website: http://www.archetypebrewing.com/
Address: 265 Haywood Rd, Asheville, NC 28806, United States
Eurisko
Eurisko is a newer brewery in Asheville, known for its creative and experimental brews. Their taproom features a cozy atmosphere with plenty of seating, as well as a rotating selection of food trucks.
Website: http://euriskobeer.com/
Address: 255 Short Coxe Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
Hillman Beer
Hillman Beer is a local favorite, known for its classic styles as well as experimental brews. Their taproom features a spacious outdoor area with plenty of seating, as well as a full kitchen serving up elevated pub fare.
Website: http://www.hillmanbeer.com/
Address: 25 Sweeten Creek Rd, Asheville, NC 28803, United States
Visitors to Asheville can enjoy a variety of breweries, each with their own unique atmosphere and beer selection.
Types of Beers to Try
Asheville is home to over 38 breweries, each with its own unique selection of beers. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide what to try. Here are some types of beers to consider when visiting Asheville:
IPAs
IPAs, or India Pale Ales, are a popular choice among beer enthusiasts. They are known for their strong hoppy flavor and bitterness. Some popular IPAs to try in Asheville include Hi-Wire Brewing’s Hop Circus and Green Man Brewery’s IPA.
Sours
Sours are a type of beer that is brewed with wild yeast or bacteria, giving them a tart and acidic taste. If you’re a fan of sour candy, you might enjoy sour beers. Some popular sours to try in Asheville include Wicked Weed Brewing’s Oblivion and Burial Beer Co.’s The Garden of Earthly Delights.
Belgian Beers
Belgian beers are known for their complex flavors and aromas. They are typically brewed with Belgian yeast, which gives them a distinct taste. Some popular Belgian beers to try in Asheville include Thirsty Monk Brewery’s Abby Blonde and New Belgium Brewing’s Abbey Belgian Dubbel.
Lagers
Lagers are a type of beer that is brewed with bottom-fermenting yeast at cooler temperatures. They are known for their crisp and clean taste. Some popular lagers to try in Asheville include Catawba Brewing Co.’s White Zombie and Hi-Wire Brewing’s Lager.
Stouts and Porters
Stouts and porters are dark beers that are known for their roasted and chocolatey flavors. They are typically brewed with dark malts, which gives them their color and taste. Some popular stouts and porters to try in Asheville include Highland Brewing Company’s Black Watch and Burial Beer Co.’s The Keeper’s Veil.
Amber and ESB
Amber and ESB (Extra Special Bitter) are types of ales that are known for their malty and caramel flavors. They are typically brewed with a blend of malts, which gives them their color and taste. Some popular ambers and ESBs to try in Asheville include Highland Brewing Company’s Gaelic Ale and Green Man Brewery’s ESB.
Ciders
Ciders are a type of alcoholic beverage that is made from fermented apples. They are known for their crisp and refreshing taste. Some popular ciders to try in Asheville include Noble Cider’s Standard Bearer and Urban Orchard Cider Co.’s Ginger Champagne.
Hazy IPAs
Hazy IPAs, also known as New England IPAs, are a type of IPA that is known for its cloudy appearance and juicy flavor. They are typically brewed with a blend of hops and malted barley, which gives them their distinct taste. Some popular hazy IPAs to try in Asheville include Asheville Brewing Company’s Perfect Day and Burial Beer Co.’s The Prayer.
Kolsch
Kolsch is a type of beer that is brewed with top-fermenting yeast at cooler temperatures, giving it a crisp and clean taste. Some popular Kolschs to try in Asheville include Hi-Wire Brewing’s Bed of Nails and Wicked Weed Brewing’s Uncle Rick’s Pilsner.
Pale Ale
Pale Ales are a type of beer that is known for its hoppy flavor and bitterness. They are typically brewed with a blend of hops and malted barley, which gives them their distinct taste. Some popular pale ales to try in Asheville include Asheville Brewing Company’s Shiva IPA and Green Man Brewery’s Trickster.
Golden Ale
Golden Ales are a type of beer that is known for its light and refreshing taste. They are typically brewed with a blend of hops and malted barley, which gives them their distinct taste. Some popular golden ales to try in Asheville include Highland Brewing Company’s Highland Pilsner and Hi-Wire Brewing’s Hi-Pitch Mosaic IPA.
With so many types of beers to try in Asheville, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs or tart sours, you’re sure to find a beer that you’ll love.
Food and Drink Pairings
Asheville’s breweries are known for their wide selection of craft beers, but they also offer delicious food options that pair perfectly with their brews. Whether you are a foodie or a beer enthusiast, there is something for everyone.
Pizza and Beer
Asheville Brewing Company is known for its “brew and view” concept where you can enjoy a movie, pizza, and beer all in one place. Their pizza is made from scratch and pairs perfectly with their selection of beers. Try the “Ninja Bread Man” pizza with their “Shiva” IPA for a spicy and flavorful combination.
Wine and Beer
If you are looking for a change of pace from beer, check out Zebulon Artisan Ales. They offer a selection of wines that pair perfectly with their beers. Try their “Fleur de Saison” beer with a glass of white wine for a refreshing and light combination.
Water and Beer
If you are looking for a non-alcoholic option to pair with your beer, most breweries offer water as a refreshing palate cleanser. Make sure to drink plenty of water while enjoying your beer to avoid dehydration.
Food Trucks and Beer
Many breweries in Asheville partner with local food trucks to offer a variety of food options. Check out the schedule of food trucks at your favorite brewery and try a different cuisine with your beer each time you visit.
Restaurants and Beer
Asheville has a thriving food scene, and many restaurants offer an extensive selection of local beers. Pair your meal with a beer from one of Asheville’s breweries for a truly immersive culinary experience.
Brewery Experiences
Asheville is home to some of the best breweries in the country, each offering a unique experience for visitors. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking to enjoy a cold one with friends, Asheville’s breweries have something for everyone. Here are some of the top brewery experiences to check out:
Live Music
Many of Asheville’s breweries feature live music, making them the perfect spot to enjoy a beer and some entertainment. One popular spot is The Orange Peel, which hosts concerts and events in addition to serving up local brews. Other breweries with live music include Highland Brewing Company and New Belgium Brewing.
Taprooms and Tours
Most of Asheville’s breweries offer taprooms where visitors can sample their beers and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. Some breweries, like Sierra Nevada and New Belgium Brewing, also offer tours of their facilities, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process.
Bars and Pubs
In addition to taprooms, Asheville’s breweries also have bars and pubs where visitors can enjoy a pint or two. One popular spot is The Thirsty Monk, which features an extensive beer list and a cozy atmosphere. Other notable bars and pubs include Wicked Weed Brewing and Hi-Wire Brewing.
Disc Golf
For those looking for a more active brewery experience, several of Asheville’s breweries have disc golf courses on their property. One popular spot is Wedge Brewing Company, which has a nine-hole course that is open to the public. Other breweries with disc golf courses include Highland Brewing Company and Oskar Blues Brewery.
Family-Friendly
Many of Asheville’s breweries are family-friendly, making them a great spot to visit with kids. One popular spot is Asheville Brewing Company, which features a family-friendly atmosphere and a menu that includes pizza and other kid-friendly options. Other family-friendly breweries include Hi-Wire Brewing and New Belgium Brewing.
Asheville’s breweries offer a variety of experiences for visitors, from live music and tours to disc golf and family-friendly atmospheres. No matter what your interests, there’s sure to be a brewery in Asheville that fits the bill.
Conclusion
Asheville, NC is a beer lover’s paradise, boasting some of the best breweries in the country. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. However, after considering factors like beer selection, atmosphere, and location, it’s clear that certain breweries stand out from the rest.
One must-visit brewery in Asheville is Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. Their Perfect Day IPA is a fan favorite, and their outdoor seating area offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, the Cowboy Poet at Wedge Brewing Company is a must-try. This beer is a unique blend of coffee and oatmeal stout, perfect for sipping on a cool autumn evening.
For those with dietary restrictions, there are several gluten-free and vegan options available at Asheville Breweries. One such option is Bhramari Brewing Company, which offers gluten-free beer and vegan food options. Their taproom also features a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a beer after a day of hiking in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains.